The Hazards of Arranged Marriages

Arranged marriages have been a practice in many cultures for centuries. It is a union between two individuals, often with the aid of their families, who are matched based on their social, economic, and moral backgrounds. While some may argue that arranged marriages lead to strong, fulfilling, and long-lasting relationships, there are still many hazards that come with being forced into such a practice. In this article, we will explore some of the dangers of arranged marriages.

Firstly, arranged marriages may lead to a lack of love and emotional connection between the spouses. With no control over their partner, individuals may be forced into a romantic and sexual relationship with someone they do not know very well, or even like. This can be extremely difficult for someone who values emotional depth in a relationship, leading to a lack of communication, affection, and understanding.

Secondly, arranged marriages may also cause psychological and emotional harm to those involved. The pressure to conform to cultural expectations and family values may cause anxiety, depression, or even a sense of being trapped or helpless. This can be particularly true for women, who may feel like they have limited agency and power over their lives.

Furthermore, arranged marriages may lead to domestic violence, abuse, and even honor killings. This is especially true in traditional cultures where women are viewed as property to be controlled by men. In such cases, women may be forced to endure physical, sexual, and emotional abuse from their husbands and in-laws, or even face deadly consequences if they refuse to comply with their family's wishes.

There is also the issue of compatibility. Individuals who are forced into arranged marriages may not be a good match for each other. With no say in their partner, they may not share the same interests, values, or goals, leading to a relationship filled with conflict, disappointment, and dissatisfaction.

Lastly, arranged marriages often lack choice and autonomy. Young people should have the right to decide who they want to spend the rest of their lives with. They should have the ability to explore their own personalities and desires and find someone who complements them. Arranged marriages strip away that fundamental right and deny them the opportunity to shape their own future.

To conclude, arranged marriages may appear to be a traditional and acceptable cultural practice, but they carry many dangers and are fraught with risks. They deny individuals autonomy, choice, and control over their own lives. Instead, we should encourage and support individuals to find love and companionship on their own terms, and respect their right to make decisions about their own lives.